Elisabeth looked at her brother with affection. Léon Junior, often referred to as LJ by friends and family, was a young man of 23 who bore a striking resemblance to their father. He had inherited Léon's height and build, measuring nearly 1.85 meters. His thick brown hair was cut short, often leaving a rebellious lock on his forehead. His bright blue eyes, a direct inheritance from their father, were always imbued with a mischievous, inquisitive gleam. LJ had an angular face, still free of the wrinkles of age, although a slight beard emphasized his jawline. His large, calloused hands betrayed his commitment to manual labor, but with a modern twist and an enthusiasm for innovation.
The two had always been very close, a strong bond nurtured by their father who involved them in various activities, whether sport, fishing or cinema. When she was younger, it was LJ who looked after him, their father having entrusted her with the responsibility of looking after his little sister. And LJ had never failed in this mission.
With time and his professional obligations, LJ was less present, but he still enjoyed spending quiet weekends with Elisabeth. These shared moments were precious to them, reinforcing their complicity and brotherly bond.
Eli and LJ walked around the lake, alternating between animated conversations and contemplative silences where everyone was deep in thought, enjoying the scenery.Eventually, they came to a small clearing overlooking a secluded cove off the lake. LJ asked his sister if this was a suitable spot for lunch, and Eli enthusiastically replied that it was perfect. LJ pulled a tablecloth from her bag and spread it out on the grass. Meanwhile, Eli pulled up her dress and went to dip her feet in the water, which was at an ideal temperature for bathing. She regretted not having brought her bathing suit, unlike her brother who had thought to take his. LJ walked past her and plunged into the lake. Just as Eli was about to return to the tablecloth, she suddenly found herself drenched by a splash from her brother. LJ burst out laughing at the look on his sister's discomfited face. Although annoyed, Eli couldn't help laughing too. With the ambient heat, her dress would dry quickly.
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She returned to the tablecloth and took a sandwich. LJ stood in the water for a moment before stepping out. "You're going for a swim, but you didn't bring a towel to dry yourself off?" Eli pointed out to her. "I didn't have any more room in the bag, and besides, with this heat, I'll dry quickly," LJ replied, sitting down next to her and taking a sandwich as well. They ate quietly, enjoying the surrounding calm.
After the meal, LJ fell asleep in the sunshine, while Eli decided to go for a walk. After a few minutes' walk, she came to another cove. From a distance, she spotted someone swimming in the water.